8
PASTOR MILLER, caught up in the infectious SINGING, suddenly breaks into a shuffle dance. TWO DEACONS cheer him on and clap in time to his dancing.
Meanwhile, a pretty 9-year-old GIRL wearing a colorful costume, encrusted with curls and ruffles, watches the GOSPEL CHOIR closely from the sanctuary doorway.
She is mesmerized by the performance. She has never seen people sing with such deep feeling and passion in her young life. It is both terrifying and uplifting to her.
RUBY DANDRIDGE, the 30s, attractive, pleasingly plump, comes up behind the GIRL and gently rests a hand on her shoulder.
RUBY
(whispers affectionately)
Step back inside, honey, before they
see you in your costume.
GIRL
They're good, Mother. They can
really sing. How're we gonna top
them?
RUBY
They're singing to the Lord, honey.
He’s a tough act to follow.
The GIRL pulls a confident look to RUBY.
GIRL
Maybe so. But I bet'cha we'll still
put a big ole smile on His face!
DOROTHY JEAN DANDRIDGE declares with an effervescent smile. RUBY hugs her close, smiling.
RUBY
I believe you will.
EXT. BAPTIST CHURCH—MEADOW. DAY.
The SOUND of the GOSPEL CHOIR SINGING spills outside the small white clapboard church.
Model A and T Ford cars, trucks, and tethered horses-and-buggies are parked in the meadow.
The ANCIENT SHARECROPPER reins the horse drawn wagon to a stop at the entrance as the HYMN CONCLUDES. CYRIL jumps down and throws him a farewell salute.
INT. BAPTIST CHURCH—VESTIBULE. DAY.
CYRIL enters brushing miles of road dust from his clothes.
PASTOR MILLER (V.O.)
Amen, Amen! I’m feeling the Spirit
today! We may be few in number but
we be mighty in the Spirit! Amen!
CONGREGATION (V.O.)
Amen! Hallelujah! Praise the Lord!
Thank you! You know that's right!
